Overview
Cracca intermedia Small or commonly known as intermediate wild-pea is a species of flowering plant belonging to the legume family Fabaceae. The plant is native to the southern United States and Mexico and is typically found in dry sandy soils in meadows and woodland edges.
Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 60 cm tall with an upright growth habit. The stems are branching and covered with fine, white hairs. The plant's leaves are alternate, pinnately compound, with several pairs of leaflets, and are about 8-25 mm long.
Its flowers are pea-like, small, pinkish to reddish purple in color, and appear in clusters at the end of the stems from late spring to fall. The fruits are slender, brownish pods up to 3 cm long, containing numerous small seeds.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including Intermediate wild-pea, Wild Pea, American Jointvetch, Wild Senna, and Spreading wild-pea.
Uses
The plant has no known edible or medicinal uses. However, it serves as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes, adding a burst of color with its vibrant flowers. It can also be used in erosion control projects due to its tolerance to drought and thriving in sandy soils.
Light Requirements
The plant Cracca intermedia Small thrives best in direct sunlight and partial shade. It requires a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day. In regions with long, hot summers, plant it in a location with some shade in the afternoon.
Temperature Requirements
The Cracca intermedia Small grows well in temperate zones. Its growth rate is greatest between 16 °C and 27 °C. Avoid planting this crop in areas where temperatures drop below 4 °C. This plant can only thrive in the right temperature conditions.
Soil Requirements
The plant Cracca intermedia Small is not finicky when it comes to soil types. It grows in different soil types, but with a preference for well-drained soils, with a pH range of 5.5 and 6.5. It is recommended to add organic matter to the soil for optimal growth. Composite soil generated from decayed organic matter can serve as an ideal planting bed for the Cracca intermedia Small plant.
Cultivation methods for Cracca intermedia Small
Cracca intermedia Small is a perennial plant that can be grown from seed or from root cuttings. The plant prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It requires a sunny location to grow properly and can withstand moderate drought and moderate freeze.
Watering needs for Cracca intermedia Small
When the plant is first established, it should be watered frequently, but once the roots are established, it can go longer between watering. The plant should be watered thoroughly, and the soil should be allowed to dry slightly between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases, so it's essential to ensure that the soil is well-draining.
Fertilization for Cracca intermedia Small
Cracca intermedia Small is a low-maintenance plant that does not require frequent fertilization. If necessary, fertilize once a year, either in early spring or late fall, using a balanced fertilizer. Avoid applying excessive fertilizer that can lead to stunted growth rather than boost growth.
Pruning for Cracca intermedia Small
Cracca intermedia Small does not require much pruning except to remove dead or damaged stems and branches. Prune the plant in the spring to promote healthy and robust growth, and to shape the plant to the desired shape. Be careful not to prune the plant too severely, as this can cause stress and limit its growth potential.
Propagation of Cracca intermedia Small
Cracca intermedia Small is a self-seeding, herbaceous perennial plant that grows vigorously. Its propagation methods are easy and straightforward. The following are the various ways of propagating Cracca intermedia Small.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Cracca intermedia Small. Collect the seedpods when they are mature and dry. After that, you can remove the seeds and store them in a cool and dry place.
When you are ready to sow the seeds, prepare a seedbed by loosening the soil and removing debris. Work in some organic matter to enrich the soil. Then plant the seeds just below the soil surface. Keep the soil moist and warm, and germination should occur within a few weeks.
Division
Division is an alternative method of propagating Cracca intermedia Small. This method involves digging up an established plant and dividing the root system into several sections. Each section should have some roots and shoots. Replant the sections in a well-prepared bed and keep the soil moist until established.
Cuttings
Cracca intermedia Small can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings from the top of the plant, and make sure each cutting has at least one node. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone. Insert the cutting into a pot of well-draining, moist soil and cover with a plastic bag to retain moisture. Place the pot in a warm, bright location, and roots should form in a few weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Cracca intermedia Small
Cracca intermedia Small is a legume plant that is commonly found in grasslands and disturbed areas. This plant has many advantages, such as its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. However, like any other crop, Cracca intermedia Small is susceptible to pests and diseases that can affect its growth and yield negatively. In this article, we will discuss the common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and suggest ways to manage them effectively.
Common Diseases
One of the common diseases that affect Cracca intermedia Small is powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to remove infected plants and destroy them. Additionally, you can apply fungicides to prevent the spread of the disease. Another common disease is the root rot, which is caused by a fungus called Rhizoctonia solani. To control this disease, it is essential to plant disease-free seeds and use well-drained soil to prevent the plant's roots from getting waterlogged. Moreover, you can apply fungicides before planting to prevent the development of the disease.
Common Pests
Aphids are common pests that can affect Cracca intermedia Small by sucking the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, resulting in stunted growth and reduced yield. To manage aphids, you can physically remove them by spraying water on the plant. Alternatively, you can apply insecticides that contain neem oil or pyrethrin to eliminate them. Another pest that affects this plant is the bean leaf beetle, which feeds on the plant's leaves and pods. To manage this pest, you can use insecticides that contain carbaryl or pyrethrin.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the management of pests and diseases is essential for the growth and yield of Cracca intermedia Small. The use of disease-free seeds, well-drained soil, and fungicides can prevent the development of diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. In addition, physical removal or the use of insecticides can control pests such as aphids and bean leaf beetles. With proper management, your Cracca intermedia Small plants will grow healthy and produce a high yield.
